Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of national highways and the slow pace of infrastructure projects under the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). During a comprehensive review meeting held in Aizawl on September 23, 2025, the CM urged central agencies to expedite repair works and ensure timely completion of ongoing projects critical to the state’s connectivity and economic development.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from NHIDCL, the state Public Works Department (PWD), and representatives from executing contractors. The CM emphasized that several stretches of NH-54, NH-302, and NH-6 have become hazardous due to landslides, potholes, and poor drainage, severely affecting transportation, trade, and emergency services.
NHIDCL Projects in Mizoram – Status Overview (2025)
| Highway Name | Total Length (km) | Project Type | Completion Status | Key Issues Highlighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NH-54 | 142 | Widening & Upgradation | 65% completed | Landslide-prone zones, delays |
| NH-302 | 78 | New Alignment | 40% completed | Contractor disputes, slow pace |
| NH-6 | 110 | Repair & Maintenance | 55% completed | Drainage failure, erosion |
| NH-150 | 62 | Connectivity Corridor | 30% completed | Forest clearance pending |
CM Lalduhoma expressed “deep dissatisfaction” over the lack of coordination between NHIDCL and local agencies, stating that the delays are not just administrative but have real-life consequences for citizens. “We are dealing with life-threatening road conditions. The people of Mizoram deserve safe and reliable highways. NHIDCL must treat this as a priority,” he said.
The CM also flagged the urgent need for temporary restoration in landslide-hit areas, especially along the Seling–Champhai stretch of NH-6, which has witnessed multiple disruptions due to monsoon-triggered slope failures. He directed the PWD to deploy emergency teams and coordinate with NHIDCL for immediate patchwork and slope stabilization.
Critical Highway Stretches – Repair Priority List
| Location / Stretch | Highway | Issue Type | CM’s Directive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seling–Champhai | NH-6 | Landslide, erosion | Emergency restoration within 10 days |
| Aizawl–Thenzawl | NH-54 | Potholes, drainage | Full resurfacing by October 15 |
| Lunglei–Tlabung | NH-302 | Alignment failure | Contractor review and re-tendering |
| Serchhip–Zokhawthar | NH-150 | Forest clearance | Expedite MoEF approvals |
NHIDCL officials assured the CM that revised timelines and contractor accountability mechanisms will be implemented immediately. The agency also committed to deploying additional technical teams to assess vulnerable zones and prepare a monsoon-resilient design framework for future projects.
The CM stressed the importance of integrating climate-resilient engineering practices, given Mizoram’s hilly terrain and high rainfall. He proposed a joint task force comprising NHIDCL, PWD engineers, and geotechnical experts to monitor high-risk corridors and recommend long-term solutions.
NHIDCL Action Plan – Post Review Meeting
| Initiative | Timeline | Responsible Agency | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Restoration Works | Within 10 days | NHIDCL + PWD | Traffic resumption in blocked zones |
| Revised Project Timelines | By October 5 | NHIDCL | Updated completion roadmap |
| Contractor Performance Audit | By October 15 | NHIDCL | Accountability and reallocation |
| Climate-Resilient Design Task Force | By October 30 | NHIDCL + State Govt | Long-term slope stability plan |
Local communities and transport unions have welcomed the CM’s intervention, citing years of neglect and poor maintenance. Several truck operators and bus drivers have reported frequent breakdowns and accidents due to crumbling road surfaces and lack of signage.
Social media platforms have seen a surge in posts from Mizoram residents sharing images of damaged highways and expressing hope that the CM’s push will lead to tangible improvements. Hashtags like #FixMizoramRoads, #NHIDCLReview, and #HighwaySafetyNow have trended across regional forums.
Public Sentiment – Mizoram Highway Repair Push
| Platform | Engagement Level | Sentiment (%) | Top Hashtags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | 620K mentions | 84% supportive | #FixMizoramRoads #NHIDCLReview |
| 480K interactions | 80% positive | #HighwaySafetyNow #MizoramCM | |
| YouTube | 410K views | 78% constructive | #MizoramRoadUpdate #NHIDCLProjects |
| 320K views | 82% hopeful | #MizoramInfrastructure #RoadRepair |
The CM also called on the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to allocate additional funds for Mizoram’s highway development, citing the strategic importance of border connectivity and trade corridors with Myanmar. He emphasized that infrastructure is not just a development issue but a national security imperative.
Strategic Importance – Mizoram’s Highway Network
| Corridor Name | Border Linkage | Economic Role | CM’s Appeal to Centre |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaladan Multi-Modal | Myanmar | Trade, logistics | Fast-track NH-302 completion |
| Zokhawthar–Champhai | Myanmar | Border trade, tourism | Upgrade NH-150 to 2-lane standard |
| Seling–Aizawl | Internal | Urban–rural connectivity | Drainage and slope stabilization |
As Mizoram pushes for faster execution and safer highways, the CM’s review of NHIDCL projects has set the tone for a more accountable and responsive infrastructure regime. With monsoon challenges and strategic imperatives at play, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether promises translate into progress.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available government statements, infrastructure updates, and expert commentary. It does not constitute investment or political advice. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.
